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We need to wrap up this cube-shaped present, remembering that we
can have no overlaps. What shapes can you find to use?

Three Cubed

Stage: 2 Challenge Level:

Three Cubed

Can you make a $3\times 3$ cube with these shapes made from small cubes?

You can record your answer as either pictures or as a net of the cube.

Why do this problem?

This problem is one which can help learners to relate 2-D representations and 3-D shapes. It is definitely one which requires making the shapes practically from interlocking cubes such as "multilink" using the 2-D drawings and then recording on squared paper (preferably in colour).

Key questions

Which shape are you making now?

How can those two shapes fit together?

Which side of the cube are you recording now?

Which side of the cube comes next to that side?

Possible extension

Learners could draw the various elevations; plan view, side view etc and even cross-sections.

Possible support

Suggest making the shapes from interlocking cubes such as "multilink" in the same colours as in the problem to make it easier to tell them apart.

The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the
NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to
embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice. More information on many of our other activities
can be found here.